The Armenian Heritage and Social Memory Program

Language, religion, literature, art, and architecture are foundational aspects of Armenian identity. These societal elements reflect a rich, deep, shared history and remain cultural touchstones within Armenian collective memory. But considering the Armenian diasporas, and subsequent establishment of communities across the globe, millions of persons of Armenian lineage may never have the opportunity to visit their ancestral homelands. How might these contemporary Armenians - especially younger generations - retain a connection or learn of their cultural identity and ethnic heritage?

The purpose of the program is to bring together comprehensive information and interactive 3D visualizations of these cultural elements in a single, virtual location, readily accessible by anyone with an internet connection, anyplace in the world. Essentially, we are tying together divergent threads of Armenian history and traditions through state-of-the-art technologies to produce a virtual cultural immersion experience. This initiative was originated and is being conducted by Drs. Travis Doering and Lori Collins, Research Associate Professors and the project's principal investigators. They are working in conjunction with the University of South Florida Library's Armenian Studies Program, and are committed to preserving and protecting cultural heritage, and implementing 3D research and curriculum that can address real world issues. To this end, the Armenian Heritage and Social Memory Program offers an interactive, collaborative, and interdisciplinary presentation of the Armenian people's cultural achievements. By creating a high-definition digital 3D archive of this heritage, Armenia's contributions to world history will be promoted on a global scale - displayed, viewed, and contextualized in ways not been previously possible.

The program uses an incremental approach. In other words we conduct individual projects that focus on specific historical sites, features, and landscapes that provide a comprehensive presentation of the people, technologies, history, and traditions. The Armenian Heritage and Social Memory Program directly reflects the values and vision of numerous Armenian organizations, scholars, and educators in its commitment to preserving Armenian language, art, culture, and literary heritage, as well as investing in Armenian youth and society.

We welcome the opportunity to partner with sponsors and organizations in this important initiative. By ensuring that irreplaceable, imperiled Armenian sites are holistically documented and engagingly presented, your support will ensure preservation and promote cultural understanding. For millions across the globe who trace their ancestry back to Armenia, The Armenian Heritage and Social Memory Program will ensure that current and future generations - regardless of geographic location - can remain connected to their cultural identity.

SubCollections

The Haghpat Monastery 3D Heritage Project is the first site selected for 3D documentation as part of the on-going DHHC's Armenian Heritage and Social Memory Program. Haghpat Monastery is located in northern Armenia's Lori Province, and is a rural town sitting above the valley that Alaverdi. This World Heritage site is imperiled due to its proximity to areas of conflict, and due to natural processes relating to structural decay and integrity loss. Additionally, air pollutants and cultural processes that accelerate structural and carved iconography surface loss are occurring at the site. Stone monuments at the site are susceptible to loss, reuse, and movement. Additionally, the ornate carved cross-stone monuments called Khachkars that are numerous at Haghpat, have been declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage that is in need of urgent safeguarding.Haghpat Monastery, Armenia project